With almost everyone improving in the afternoon Free Practice session, the fastest rider in the combined classification for World Supersport was Jules Cluzel (MV Agusta Reparto Corse).

With one second covering the top 13, the Frenchman was followed closely by championship leader Michael van der Mark (Pata Honda World Supersport Team) and Ratthapark Wilairot (Core PTR Honda) who continues his Sepang form in 3rd.

Behind the top three, former champion Kenan Sofuoglu (Mahi Racing Team India Kawasaki) headed Lorenzo Zanetti (Pata Honda World Supersport Team) and American PJ Jacobsen (Kawasaki Intermoto Ponyexpres) who rounded out the top six.

Massimo Roccoli, who has replaced Vladimir Leonov in the official MV Agusta squad was 11th, whilst Italian Luca Marconi returned to action with Lorini Honda in 18th.

Alex Baldolini (ATK Racing MV Agusta) is making his second wildcard appearance of the year and after a few minor technical problems the podium finisher in the last World Supersport race held in Misano ended the opening day in a respectable 16th.